(LaPorte, IN) – Well over 100 free Domino’s pizzas were given out in seven minutes Sunday in LaPorte to help with what looks to be trying times ahead from the coronavirus outbreak.

         People backed up more than 500 feet in vehicles were handed pizzas by more than a dozen volunteers in the LaPorte High School parking lot.

         Jim Gronemann, owner of the Domino’s at 325 J St. in LaPorte, brought 200 large cheese pizzas for the cause.

         “We know there’s a lot of people out of work and LaPorte has been very good us. We want to show we’re not just about taking money from people.  We want to also give back in a time of need,” he said.

         The line of vehicles started moving at 2 p.m. toward volunteers holding pizzas in front of the school. 

         “This is what makes LaPorte special,” mayor Tom Dermody said.

         Dermody, his wife, Jackie, along with state representative Jim Pressel and LaPorte Community School Corporation superintendent Mark Francesconi were among the helpers during the giveaway.

         After the rush, the number of vehicles pulling in was more gradual with the last pizza given out at 3:20 p.m.

         The event was advertised by Dermody on his Facebook page.

         Dermody kept his social media followers up to date with video reports of how many pizzas were left at different intervals throughout the event. 

         “Together, we’re making things happen here for the people needing a little food assistance,” Dermody said.

         Francesconi said Gronemann contacted high school principal Ben Tonagel then based on the number of students in need his administration suggested 200 pizzas for the cause.

         “He never flinched at all,” Francesconi said.

         Dermody said another Domino’s pizza give away will happen Saturday at the high school.

         The time and other details have not yet been worked out.